What is POPAL?
POPAL stands for Person in Charge of Wastewater Treatment Operations. This role is required in all wastewater treatment facilities — in factories, hospitals, housing areas, and commercial zones. The main job is to make sure the wastewater treatment plant (IPAL) works properly and follows environmental rules.
Legal Basis
POPAL's job is guided by several important regulations, including:
- Law No. 32/2009 – Environmental Protection
- PP No. 22/2021 – Environmental Management
- Permen LHK P.68/2016 – Domestic Wastewater
- Permen LHK P.93/2018 – Continuous Monitoring (CEMS)
- Permen LHK P.5/2018 – POPAL certification standards
Main Duties of POPAL
1. Operate the Wastewater Plant (IPAL)
POPAL must run the treatment system from start to finish, making sure everything runs smoothly and safely.
2. Monitor Wastewater Quality
They check wastewater parameters like pH, BOD, COD, and TSS to make sure the water meets environmental standards.
3. Maintain and Repair Equipment
POPAL is responsible for maintaining pumps, blowers, pipes, panels, and fixing issues when needed.
4. Handle Sludge
They manage sludge from the treatment process, record the amount, and make sure it’s disposed of properly.
5. Keep Records and Report
POPAL writes daily, weekly, and monthly reports, and sends data to government systems like SIMPEL.
6. Follow Rules
They make sure the IPAL operates with a valid permit and meets all legal and safety requirements.
7. Improve Efficiency
They look for ways to make the system more efficient, including recycling or reusing treated water.
Required Skills (BNSP Certification)
POPAL must be able to:
- Operate the IPAL system
- Check and evaluate water pollution levels
- Perform maintenance
- Identify hazards
- Follow safety (K3) procedures
These skills are certified by BNSP using standard competency codes.
Education & Certification Requirements
- If you have a D3 in Environmental Field: 1–3 years of experience
- If you have a D3 in Other Fields: 2–5 years of experience
- If you have a High School/SMK Diploma: 7 years of experience or a training certificate
POPAL must take official training and pass a BNSP certification exam, which covers operation, quality testing, safety, and monitoring plans.
Job Type: Contract
